1st Annual Junior Premier Indoor League

This past weekend saw the conclusion of the 1st Annual Junior Premier Indoor League and by all indications it appears to be a huge success to those that participated.

After five league dates of competitive Indoor Hockey on a consistence and regular basis, we can truly say that the benefits can been seen by all. The improvement of the games played by all Clubs from the fist League date on January 7th to this Championship weekend is very commendable and is attributed to the commitment of the players and coaches alike.

We have seen the rise of the Rising Sun FHC that was able to secure a 10th place finish after going into the final day without a League victory. I am sure everyone will agree that they were the most improved team.

Xcalibur FHC continued to dominate their opponents with speed of execution, good ball handling skill and great team work to capture the Princess Challenge Trophy.

Special Recognition was given to three individuals and was each presented with a Princess Indoor Sticks.Most Valuable Players: Aileen Johnson, Jersey Intensity FHC and Terasa Benvenuti, Xcalibur FHCMost League Goals: Shannon Scavelli, Hudson Valley FH

Special thanks to US Field Hockey, especially Ashley Meunier for supporting this event by posting the results on its web site for all to see. Special mention to the USA Women National Indoor Coach Denise Zelenak and Manager Nicky Hitchens for their attendance this past weekend, and for assisting with the Awards presentation.

To Steve Horgan, Susan McHenry and all of the Officiating staff, we thank you for the commitment and support given to this event and look forward to working with you as we continue to improve from this starting point.

We want to thank the League Sponsor Princess Hockey USA, for seeing the need and value of such an event in the development of our kids, the sport and for agreeing to be the Official Sponsor. Please show you appreciation by visiting their booth at NIT and support their products.

On behalf of the League Organizers Rachael Bloemker and myself, Nigel Traverso, we would like to thank the Clubs, Players, Coaches, Umpires, 422 Sportsplex, and last but not least the Club’s volunteers who kept accurate scores and kept the games running on time each week. Thanks you for your hard work, commitment, support and cooperation in seeing this first year through and for its success.

Congratulations to Xcalibur FHC the 2012 JPIL Champions and to all the Clubs for your participation!